Anthraquinone has yet to be found in nature. Of all the quinones found naturally, those derived from anthraquinone far exceed all others. Many of these are found in molds. Derivatives of 9,10-anthracenedione (anthraquinones) with several hydroxy and other functional groups are biologically active compounds isolated from Rubia and Cassia medical plant species. Anthraquinone is a comparatively safe compound: LD50 (rat) is 3500 mg/kg. It is a mild allergen and, as a fine powder, may cause skin irritation. Exposure to 3,000 ppm may be tolerated for only 30–60 min after which irritation of the nose, throat, and lungs may occur along with headaches, dizziness, and slurred speech. 9,10-anthraquinone is a weak carcinogen. Aside from its major use in the manufacture of intermediates for anthraquinone dyes and pigments, anthraquinone is finding increasing interest as a catalyst in the pulping of wood, in the polymerization of various materials for plastics, and in the isomerization of vegetable oils. It has been used to make seeds distasteful to birds (bird repellent) and as an accelerator in nickel electroplating.

Quinone is extensively used as a chemical intermediate, a polymerization inhibitor, an oxidizing agent, a photographic chemical, a tanning agent, and a chemical reagent. Quinone (p-benzoquinone) was first produced commercially in 1919 and has since been manufactured in several European countries. Its major use is in hydroquinone production, but it is also used as a polymerization inhibitor and as an intermediate in the production of a variety of substances, including rubber accelerators and oxidizing agents. It is used in the dye, textile, chemical, tanning, and cosmetic industries. In chemical synthesis for hydroquinone and other chemicals, quinone is used as an intermediate. It is also used in the manufacturing industries and chemical laboratory associated with protein fibre, photographic film, hydrogen peroxide, and gelatin making. Occupational exposure to quinone may occur in the dye, textile, chemical, tanning, and cosmetic industries. Inhalation exposure to quinone may occur from tobacco smoke. Quinone is a major metabolite of benzene. It has been found to generate H2O2 in cells. It has been suggested that the peroxide reacts with Cu(I) to produce an active species that induces internucleosomal DNA fragmentation.